CompTIA Security+ is widely recognized as the gold standard entry-level cybersecurity certification. It covers network security, identity management, threats, risk management, and cloud security basics. It is also DoD 8570/8140 approved, meaning it qualifies you for government and contractor roles.

If you are interested in cybersecurity, Security+ should be at the top of your list. It provides a strong foundation that can launch you into advanced certifications like CySA+, CASP+, or vendor-specific ones like Cisco CCNA Security.

At ASM Educational Center, we recommend Security+ as a first certification for students who want to start in cybersecurity roles, because it combines technical skills with compliance recognition.

Security+ vs. Network+: Which Should You Take First?

Network+ focuses on networking fundamentals: IP addressing, routing, switching, ports, and protocols. It’s vendor-neutral, just like Security+, but its scope is narrower.

• Take Network+ first if… you are brand new to IT, have little hands-on experience, and want to build a strong networking foundation before tackling security concepts.

• Take Security+ first if… you already have basic networking knowledge, or your career goals are security-focused rather than networking-focused.

At ASM, many students skip Network+ and go straight to Security+, especially if they’ve had exposure to networking through school, work, or self-study.

Security+ vs. AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner

Cloud skills are in high demand, and AWS is the leading cloud provider. The AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner (CCP) is an entry-level certification that validates basic knowledge of cloud services, billing, security, and architecture.

• Take AWS Cloud Practitioner first if… you want to move into a cloud engineer, cloud administrator, or DevOps role, and your current focus is cloud computing rather than security.

• Take Security+ first if… you want a career in cybersecurity, compliance, or IT security roles.

The good news is that Security+ and AWS CCP complement each other. Cloud services are part of the Security+ exam, and AWS heavily emphasizes security, so earning both makes you more marketable.

Security+ vs. ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity (CC)

The ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity (CC) certification is relatively new but growing in popularity. It covers security principles, risk management, network security, and incident response at a very entry-level.

• Take ISC2 CC first if… you are brand new to IT and want an extremely foundational cybersecurity certification before tackling Security+.

• Take Security+ first if… you want a certification with stronger industry recognition, DoD compliance, and more job postings requiring it.

Most students use ISC2 CC as a stepping stone, but Security+ remains the stronger credential for long-term career growth.

Which One Should You Choose First?

Here’s a quick breakdown based on your goals:

• Beginner in IT with no experience: Start with Network+ or ISC2 CC, then move into Security+.

• Focused on cybersecurity: Start with Security+ — it’s the most recognized entry-level cybersecurity certification.

• Interested in cloud computing: Start with AWS Cloud Practitioner, then add Security+ later to strengthen your security knowledge.

• Looking for government/DoD roles: Start with Security+, since it meets DoD 8570/8140 requirements.

At ASM Educational Center, we help students map their career paths with the right certifications. Our all-inclusive Security+ training program includes live instructor-led classes, hands-on labs, official practice exams, and an exam voucher — everything you need to pass and move into a cybersecurity role.